Smithe Redwoods State Natural Reserve facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Smithe Redwoods State Natural Reserve |
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 Smithe Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Location in California
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| Location | Mendocino County, California, US |
| Created | 1963 |
| Operator | California Department of Parks and Recreation |
| Website | https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=427 |
Smithe Redwoods State Natural Reserve is a special California state park located in Mendocino County. This beautiful area is home to giant redwood trees. The South Fork Eel River flows through the park, offering a lovely waterfall and places for fun activities like swimming and picnicking.
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Discover Smithe Redwoods State Natural Reserve
Smithe Redwoods State Natural Reserve is a wonderful place to explore nature. It protects ancient redwood trees and the river that runs through them. It's a great spot for families and friends to enjoy the outdoors.
A Look Back in Time
Before it became a state park, this area was known as Lane's Redwood Flat. It was a small community with cabins, a store, a post office, and even a bus stop.
In 1940, W. S. Ware and Lester Goble bought the land. It was famous for its amazing redwood trees, some of which were 2,000 years old! Imagine how much history those trees have seen.
Saving the Redwoods
By 1963, there was a plan to sell the land for logging. Logging means cutting down trees for wood. Many people wanted to save these old trees. The California State Legislature (the state's law-making group) worked to get the state to buy the land. Groups like the Save the Redwoods League also helped.
A kind person named Mrs. W. W. Stout promised to donate a lot of money to help buy the land. Thanks to these efforts, the state government bought the site in 1963. This is how Lane's Redwood Flat became Smithe Redwoods State Natural Reserve.
Nature's Wonders at the Reserve
The park is now much larger than it was originally. It includes a long stretch of the South Fork Eel River. This river frontage is perfect for enjoying the water.
Amazing Trees and Plants
The reserve is famous for its towering coast redwood trees. But that's not all! You can also find other cool trees like Douglas fir, madrone, California laurel, and yew. There are also different kinds of oaks and pines. It's like a giant outdoor classroom for learning about plants!
Park Activities and Features
Today, Smithe Redwoods State Natural Reserve offers a peaceful escape. You can visit the beautiful waterfall, enjoy a picnic with your family, or have fun by the South Fork Eel River. It's a great place to connect with nature and see some of the oldest, tallest trees on Earth.
